I don't usually read a lot of historical fiction set during the 16th and 17th centuries, however I'm starting to come around to it; first with The War Within Me by Tracy Ryan, which was a fascinating read, and now Crimson Velvet Heart equally fascinating and intriguing in equal measures.
The story is told through the journal of the fictitious Sr Clare, a close childhood friend and later lady-in-waiting to Adelaide.
Extensively researched, Carmel Bird uses real historical figures and some fictitious characters plus some real events and imagined dialogue to spin a tale that is rich in political intrigue. The opulence of the French royals and the rampant illness and disease rings true to the era.
This was a time when marriages were made to advance political standing and wealth, and land was fought over in endless wars. Religious persecution was rife.
Bird captures Adelaide's wild rebellious side and puts into question the relationship between Adelaide and King Louis XIV. Adelaide is flirtatious, manipulative and observant. A young girl trained for her role.
I wondered as I read if in a few hundred years time someone will write a story about Diana, the mother of the future king of England, who also had an untimely death.
Carmel Bird's visceral prose paints a vivid picture of life for the royals during the late 1600's.
The title comes into the story as velvet heart-shaped pin cushions that were made by the nuns to sell to support the convent.
My only grievance I have with the story is that it isn't written in chronological order, but through Clare's memories that jump back and forward in time, which was very confusing for me.
Crimson Velvet Heart is sure to be a hit with historical fiction readers.
My rating 3 / 5 ⭐⭐⭐
Publisher: Transit Lounge
Publication date: 1st November 2025
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 320
RRP: AU$34.99 (trade paperback)
Source: Courtesy of the publisher via Quikmark Media
#crimsonvelvetheart #carmelbird #historicalfiction #aussieauthor
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